Maelstrom making room for Frozen at Epcot

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chariman Tom Staggs announced today that the popular Epcot Norway pavilion attraction Maelstrom will be closing down for good to be transformed into a new “Frozen” themed attraction:

We’ve made “Frozen” a part of the guest experience in a number of ways already and our guests have both loved them and asked for more. So I’m pleased to say that we’re starting construction at Walt Disney World Resort on a brand new “Frozen” attraction at the Norway Pavilion in Epcot. The new attraction, which replaces Maelstrom, will take our guests to Arendelle and immerse them in many of their favorite moments and music from the film. The pavilion will also include a royal greeting location where Anna and Elsa can meet our guests. We think these “Frozen” elements are great complements to the Norway Pavilion, which showcases the country and region that inspired the film.

No information about timing or construction schedules were given. The original Maelstrom opened in 1988 and centered around a Viking ship-inspired boat ride taking guests through Norway’s historical and mythical past, ending in a short film about the country.

A news report out of Norway earlier this year detailed some of the concerns surrounding Disney’s planned modifications to the pavilion (Use CC for English subtitles).